https://boards.hellobee.com/ Pregnancy, Baby and Parenting blog, by Hellobee en Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:53:45 +0000 https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/nipple-shields#post-307096 Sun, 23 Sep 2012 21:04:58 +0000 littlecasita1122 307096@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I used a nipple shield from day 1 in the hospital because the nurse said I had flat nipples. When I met with a LC before I left, she said I really didn't have flat nipples and gave me some suggestions on how to get him to latch without the shield (like squeezing my breast into a C shape so the nipple sticks out more). When we went home, I would use the shield when my nipples started to really hurt and I needed some relief...I probably used it for a good amount of feedings the first couple weeks. Then I worked on slowly weaning him from it. It took him a bit to get him to latch on without it but I would say by week 3 we didn't need it anymore. I never had problems with getting the shield to stay on - it would automatically just stick to my skin. Maybe try using a little water to get it to stick to you better? The one I used was a Medela brand if that helps. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/nipple-shields#post-307043 Sun, 23 Sep 2012 20:07:10 +0000 MusicaV 307043@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>DS is only 3 days old and I'm already frustrated with nipple shields!</p> <p>DS initially had feeding problems because he swallowed a lot of fluid and blood on the way out. He spit up quite a bit for the first 24-36 hours and wouldn't eat because his stomach still had all that stuff in it. The first LC I saw said I had flat nipples, gave me a nipple shield, and pretty much just left. It didn't help much. The next day, another LC consultant came by and actually showed us how to use it properly. DS did a great job nursing with it. Things were looking up. Now that he was understanding latch a bit better, we were able to get him to nurse without the nipple shield a few times.</p> <p>Now that we're home, things aren't going the way I would like. I know he can nurse without the shield, but he's much better with the shield. The problem is, I can't put it on by myself, If I try to nurse without it first, he gets so frustrated that he's screaming by the time DH comes over to help me get the shield on. He nurses well with it on, but when he pulls off I see milk left between the shield and my nipple (stuff that he sucked out but didn't swallow).</p> <p>Did you use a nipple shield? Any tips on getting it on? How long did you need it? The second LC I saw said some women use it for their whole BFing time. </p>